CONNECTING WOMEN: A DRIVER FOR AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION

The FLIARA project’s CoP brings together women rural innovators from across Europe. Feedback from participants of in-person events underscore the value of exchange and networking activities offered. For optimal inclusion, FLIARA also offers a CoP LinkedIn space and regular online events and webinars to cater to women’s schedules.

Call for action: A Thünen Institute study shows in Germany the lack of networks is a hindrance to women-led start-ups in rural areas. It also finds women would like more exchange with other women when founding agri-businesses. A Gender Solution study finds women in agri-food feel most empowered, secure and heard in entrepreneurial support formats tailored to them.

Inspiring examples: In Germany the following initiatives currently facilitate women networking in relation to agriculture: 

• The German Farmers’ Association (DBV) via the ‘Kompass-program’ offers opportunities to build networks through events and parliamentary meetings

• The German Agricultural Association (DLG) runs the Female Agri Fellows network, connecting women leaders in agri-business.
• The Rural Women’s Association (DLV) federal and regional chapters organise events to highlight women in agriculture. 
• The Organic Women Network (BioFrauenNetzwerk) fosters collaboration and visibility of women across the organic farm sector.